Showing posts with label Stakes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Stakes. Show all posts
August 12, 2013
August 11, 2013
May 21, 2013
Temple Stakes Preview: Sprinting our way to Haydock success
"Sole Power didn't improve when making a winning return to the UK in the Palace House last time, a performance figure of 122 matching that which he has achieved on three occasions previously, but the visual impression was startling..."
Timeform's Matt Gardner gets to grips with the feature race on Saturday, the Group 2 Temple Stakes at Haydock Park...
As is so often the case when previewing a race ante-post, the one unfathomable with regards to the Temple Stakes is not who will run, but in what state the ground will be.
Assessing a handicap ante-post is a nightmare, as you then have marks and possible alternative targets to take into account, but it is often more straightforward with pattern races, as connections tend to point out just which race they are likely to assign their charge or, indeed, if they intend not to run at all. Roger Charlton, for example, was very helpful this morning by announcing that Mince would skip Haydock and instead head to Chantilly for the Prix du Gros-Chene at Chantilly next weekend.
That leaves us with a field of 19 to wade through, though once you deduct the sprinters that are all of a similar ability, yet unlikely to trouble the judge in a race of this nature, you are really only left with six. Eight at a push.
The pair that I'm struggling to include in the "potential winners" category are Kingsgate Native and Tangerine Trees, though if I'm being fair they both ran excellent races to finish second and third respectively in the Palace House at Newmarket. Kingsgate Native is something of an enigma these days, certainly talented but also untrustworthy, and he is just as likely to bomb out as he is to get his head in front for the first time since winning the Temple in 2010, whilst Tangerine Trees, who is seemingly in the middle of a revival, could go well if he continues to regain his form but will need to be right at his peak to trouble a few of these.
The solid option, as has been the case in the top-end sprints for a while now and will continue to be so unless something else emerges in the near future, is the Eddie Lynam-trained Sole Power, who more often than not runs his race. He arguably should have won more in his career to date, his defeat in the corresponding race last year at the hands of Bated Breath particularly painful for my wallet, but it is difficult to knock either his consistency or his attitude.
Sole Power didn't improve when making a winning return to the UK in the Palace House last time, a performance figure of 122 matching that which he has achieved on three occasions previously, but the visual impression was startling and it is possible to argue that he looked better than ever, with the five-year-old still straining Johnny Murtagh's reins two furlongs from home despite the race having been run at a decent pace.
Sole Power had his optimum conditions at Newmarket, a well-run five furlongs on quick ground, and if that comes about again on Saturday he will be a force to be feared.
Having mentioned that the sprint division could do with a couple of additions, some new kids on the block as it were, it would be wrong of us to not discuss the chances of Reckless Abandon, Pearl Secret and Swiss Spirit.
Of that trio Reckless Abandon is the youngest and, in the eyes of many, boasts the most potential, kicking off his three-year-old campaign with an unbeaten record which includes triumphs in the Norfolk Stakes, the Prix Morny and the Middle Park. He is a proper speedball and it is refreshing to see connections sticking to their guns, right in the assertion that he is a sprinter, rather than attempting to stretch out his stamina for a tilt at the Guineas (are you listening Moohaajim and co?).
The problem facing Reckless Abandon is the same one to have faced many a three-year-old sprinter, in that they find it most difficult to mix it with their elders. If anything this issue is exacerbated with Clive Cox's charge, as he is forced to carry a 4 lb Group 1 penalty, and on his first run of the season he could just prove susceptible.
Pearl Secret is a four-year-old but has taken to the track on an equal number of occasions to Reckless Abandon, five to be precise. He made an instant impression, landing his first three assignments in impressive fashion prior to taking a listed race at Sandown, where he wasn't quite so flashy but was disadvantaged by the distinct lack of pace. He carried my cash on his first foray into Group 1 company in the Nunthorpe last year but could hardly have had more go against him, racing on the unfavoured stand-side having had just about the worst of the draw before being hampered a furlong out, finishing with any amount of running left.
It is well worth forgiving that effort, and the suspicion remains that he will develop into a real top-notch sprinter, though the murmurs emanating from the David Barron camp are that they wouldn't mind a spot of rain before Saturday. Looking at the forecast, I'm not so sure that their prayers will be answered.
Swiss Spirit has had much more racing than either of the two we've just discussed but my inkling is that we are yet to see the best of him. He has always struck as one with plenty of talent and that talent has surfaced on occasion, particularly so when scoring in a Group 3 at Newbury last year, but his headstrong ways often got the better of him. A change of stable from David Elsworth to John Gosden over the summer caught the eye, as did his performance in the Duke of York on his reappearance, making good headway approaching the final furlong before fading in the closing stages.
Swiss Spirit is sure to be sharper for that run and, such is the pace he has shown in his races, he will not be inconvenienced by the return to five furlongs. If anything, he could thrive at this distance and, allied with a faster surface, could finally show the latent ability he has long since hinted at possessing.
The others to make up our shortlist are Maarek and Spirit Quartz, with the first mentioned of definite interest were the heavens to open and the latter a consistent performer, if just a shade below the top level.
Where does that leave us in terms of a bet then? Well, if I'm honest, I'm not entirely sure. Sole Power is the solid option and created an excellent impression when winning the Palace House, so it is incredibly difficult to take him on, but both Pearl Secret and Swiss Spirit boast confirmed ability alongside as yet untapped potential.
The wise play is to get Sole Power on side, safe in the knowledge of a good run, and to also take a bit of a chance on one of the exciting horses. Pearl Secret has the most scope for improvement but may want a bit more juice in the ground so I will take Swiss Spirit, who could thrive with this combination of five furlongs on a quick surface.
Recommendations:
Back Sole Power @ 4.216/5
Back Swiss Spirit @ 11.010/1
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May 10, 2013
Ormonde Stakes: Timeform's runner-by-runner guide
"Mount Athos has finally realised his potential since joining this yard, completing hat-trick in Group 3 at Newbury before good fifth in Melbourne Cup..."
Timeform provide you with a runner-by runner guide to the feature race on the final day of Chester's May meeting, the Ormonde Stakes...
Communicator is generally still on the upgrade, showing useful form when taking 1½m handicap here in August. Good efforts in defeat since but bit to find with principals on return.
Mad Moose is a seful handicap hurdler/chaser but has refused to race last 2 starts in that sphere. Showed near-useful form when winning Doncaster maiden on belated Flat bow 2 weeks ago but this is a big ask.
Memphis Tennesse has quickly progressed into a smart performer at 3, making frame in Derby/Irish Derby. Made all in this event on return last year before shaped as if amiss in Hardwicke. Big player if on form.
Mount Athos has finally realised his potential since joining this yard, completing hat-trick in Group 3 at Newbury before good fifth in Melbourne Cup. Latest run easily forgiven and leading conteder.
Zafarqand is a stoutly-bred gelding who made a highly promising start when second in Gowran maiden 13 months ago for John Oxx. Not seen since, however, and facing a tall order on debut for new yard.
Luthien has little solid form over a variety of trips and hopelessly out of her depth.
Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Mount Athos
2. Memephis Tennesse
3. Communicator
Timeform View: This looks a match between Mount Athos and Memphis Tennessee. The latter won this cosily on his return last year but there are slight doubts about his wellbeing given he's not been seen since finishing tailed off at Royal Ascot in June, so Luca Cumani's charge is marginally preferred.
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Huxley Stakes: Timeform's runner-by-runner guide
Andrew Balding holds a strong hand with Highland Knight and Bonfire, and it's the former who gets the vote after his good second in a Group 2 at Sandown recently...
Timeform analyse each runner in a competitive renewal of the Huxley Stakes at Chester...
Bonfire landed the Dante on return last year but rather let down by his flighty temperament thereafter. Just a respectable third in Group 3 at Newmarket on reappearance and needs to build on that.
Danadana made giant strides last year, scoring at Newmarket, Redcar and York. Looks ready for a step up in grade on return for in-form yard.
Dick Doughtywylie won a maiden over C&D in 2011, and belatedly back to that form to land a minor event at Doncaster last September. Good fifth in Group 3 at Sandown on return but another step up required.
Gabrial progressed well at 3 yrs, landing Silver Bowl at Haydock, and looked better than ever when winning listed race at Doncaster on return, albeit hanging badly right. Worth another try at this trip.
Highland Knight was better than ever last year, winning listed race at Pontefract and Group 2 event at Baden-Baden. Better for return when second in Group 2 at Sandown last time and strong contender if seeing out trip.
Miblish posted some creditable efforts in defeat in 2012 and has improved again both starts this year, making all in listed event at Kempton last time. More needed but that entirely possible.
Rewarded walked over on return last year before following up in 1m handicap at Newmarket in May. Not disgraced in better company since but likely to prove vulnerable again.
Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Highland Knight
2. Danadana
3. Bonfire
Timeform View: Andrew Balding holds a strong hand with Highland Knight and Bonfire, and it's the former who gets the vote after his good second in a Group 2 at Sandown recently. Gabrial and Danadana also need considering.
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April 27, 2013
Gordon Richards Stakes: Al Kazeem makes winning return
Al Kazeem returned from a 357-day lay-off with victory in the Gordon Richards Stakes...
Last seen when winning the Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket, Roger Charlton's charge travelled well throughout the 10-furlong heat in the hands of James Doyle.
Ektihaam set out to make virtually all but Al Kazeem was cruising in behind turning for home before finally making his move with a furlong to go.
Thomas Chippendale made it a three-way finish by launching his challenge down the outside and while Al Kazeem possibly felt his long absence in the dying strides, he hung on by.
Thomas Chippendale claimed a narrow second with Ektihaam third.
Al Kazeem has entries in races such as the Coronation Cup and Prince Of Wales's Stakes this term but Charlton is targeting a trip to Ireland at the end of May.
Charlton said: "I was a bit apprehensive because a lot of mine will come on for the run. He looked great and that was a good effort.
"We know he gets a mile and half, but a mile and a quarter is a more commercial distance, as long as he can win good races over that distance, but he will have entries over a mile and a half as well.
"In the immediate future, I think he will go to the Curragh for Tattersalls Gold Cup."
Doyle is expecting his mount to progress for the run and said: "Since he's come back he's been galloping great at home and doing everything right.
"We expected this today. Today is a stepping stone to bigger things and he couldn't have done it any easier.
"It was his first run for ages so I didn't want to ask him to do too much too soon and when he got to the front he pricked his ears and lugged into the rail."
Thomas Chippendale pleased connections on his return but is now set for a step up in trip.
Barry Simpson, racing manager to owner Sir Robert Ogden, said: "The best three on form were first, second and third so you'd have to say that was a very good run. I think he might step up a couple of furlongs now."
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September 14, 2012
Scarbrough Stakes Result: Powerful finish seals it for Sole
"All going well he will go for the Abbaye if the ground is right, and then on to Hong Kong as Johnny thinks he will be perfect to race over there."
Irish raider Sole Power produced a spectacular burst of speed to win the Scarbrough Stakes...
Slightly uneasy in the market due to concerns that the ground had gone against Edward Lynam's star, Sole Power, sent off at a Betfair SP 3.7, produced a startling turn of foot to register a comfortable success.
Always travelling strongly, it had briefly looked as if Sole Power might struggle to get a run, but once the gap appeared he quickened sharply to beat Jwala with Excelette back in third.
Lynam said: "I don't think anyone could say he didn't deserve that. Anyone who was brave enough to back a Group 1 horse in a Listed race at 11-4 has done very well.
"He came back from York (this year's Nunthorpe) very buzzy for whatever reason. He got too much daylight that day and it didn't do him any good. It's a long time until the Abbaye and Hong Kong, so we wanted to get another run into him.
"He was quite keen today - Johnny said he was going to be very cool on him and he certainly was. The horse has a very good turn of foot and all going well he will go for the Abbaye if the ground is right, and then on to Hong Kong as Johnny thinks he will be perfect to race over there."
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Timeform Daily: Thursday, Park Hill Stakes, Doncaster 14:55
Wild Coco is unexposed after just 6 career runs, and made successful return from absence of nearly a year when winning Lillie Langtry Stakes at Goodwood...
Timeform offer a runner-by-runner guide to the Group 2 Park Hill Stakes at Doncaster...
Cracking Lass made up into a useful performer last year, and finished fourth in this event. Respectable fourth in listed race at York on recent return but another minor role looks on the cards.
Wild Coco is unexposed after just 6 career runs, and made successful return from absence of nearly a year when winning Lillie Langtry Stakes at Goodwood. Given plenty of time to recover and leading contender.
Ambivalent is a progressive filly, winning 3 of 5 starts, most recently a listed race at Newbury last month. Looks ready for this step up in grade and is one to consider, with trip unlikely to be an issue.
Bite Of The Cherry is progressive, taking form up another notch when 5-length winner on handicap bow at Newmarket (13f). Only fourth in listed race at York last time, however, and this even tougher
Estimate is a highly progressive filly who followed Salisbury maiden win with easy victory in Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot. Good third to Wild Coco in Lillie Langtry last time and this track should be more suitable.
Gallipot is a well-bred filly who is very much on the up, winning 11f handicaps at Kempton last 2 runs. This a big step up in class, though, and stamina has to be taken on trust.
Hazel Lavery was firmly back on the up when winning soft-ground 1½m Newmarket listed event in July by 3¾ lengths from Dorcas Lane. Disappointed in Lillie Langtry last time, however, and others preferred.
Kailani is a daughter of Kazzia. Made winning start at Yarmouth and dotted up in Newmarket listed race on return. Failed to handle track in Oaks but looked lacklustre in Ribblesdale last time.
Monshak chased home subsequent Irish Oaks victor Great Heavens at Yarmouth on debut before taking Chepstow maiden and 1¾m Chester handicap. Refused to race (visored) last time, however.
Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Wild Coco
2. Estimate
3. Ambivalent
Timeform View: Sir Henry Cecil (5) and Sir Michael Stoute (4) have won this race 9 times between them over the years, and they both have solid claims of further enhancing their record, saddling Wild Coco and Estimate respectively, the former fancied to come out on top again. Ambivalent is another to consider.
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September 13, 2012
Park Hill Stakes Result: Coco goes Wild at Doncaster
Wild Coco, sent off at a Betfair SP of 3.185/40 took the Group 2 Park Hill Stakes at Doncaster on Thursday...
The four-year-old, trained by Sir Henry Cecil, made a winning seasonal reappearance at Goodwood last month, landing the Group 3 Lillie Langtry Stakes by two and three-quarter lengths.
Estimate, who finished third at Goodwood, appeared to slip the field as the race drew to a close, going three lengths clear under Paul Hanagan and seemingly having her rivals in trouble. however, as they entered the final furlong the pack was closing, and it soon became evident that Wild Coco was going to get on top.
Hazel Lavery eventually stayed on to take second, leaving Estimate to fill third for the second successive occasion and Gallipot in fourth.
Wild Coco holds an entry in the Fillies' and Mares' Stakes on Champions Day, and is sure to be of interest in that event.
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Irish Champion Stakes Result: Snow Fairy prevails under Dettori
Snow Fairy won the Irish Champion Stakes under Frankie Dettori, registering her seventh Group 1 win in the process...
Always travelling well, Snow Fairy had Nathaniel firmly in her sights as they turned for home and there was a sense of inevitability about the result as they approached the final furlong.
Nathaniel battled well to hold on to second, whilst St Nicholas Abbey finished well to take third.
Dettori had also ridden Snow Fairy 12 months ago when Dunlop's star found only So You Think too good.
Dettori said: "Usually I don't notice these things, but I could hear the crowd really get behind her and the roar when she crossed the line.
"The crowd at Leopardstown are fantastic. I've had some great days here. It's all about the filly, she's so popular. Everyone was delighted to see her win like that in a fighting finish. She got a tremendous cheer. She's as popular as Kauto Star over jumps and for racing we need superstars like that. She's small but she comes with a big punch!
"All the credit goes to Ed and the team for bringing her back after her serious injury, this race has been won by some great champions and she is one of them. It has been an honour to be on her again. Ryan said be patient and she'll quicken when you ask her. Ryan has been a gentleman, a great help."
There was a dramatic conclusion to the Group 1 Matron Stakes as Chachamaidee was awarded the race in the stewards' room.
Duntle, who won the Sandringham Handicap at Royal Ascot, finished first-past-the-post, but the placings were reversed after it was decided that Duntle's rider Wayne Lordan had caused interference. Chachamaidee, who had received a bump, was only narrowly behind Duntle at the line and, after a lenghty inquiry, was eventually awarded the race.
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September 3, 2012
Champion Stakes: Pastorious facing Frankel test
"We know we can't beat Frankel, I don't think anybody can beat him, but it will be great just to be in the same race. If we can finish second, third or fourth we'll be very happy".
Frankel is set to face a new rival at Ascot next month after German star Pastorius was confirmed an intended runner in the Champion Stakes...
Mario Hofer's three-year-old won the German Derby at Hamburg in early July and tasted further Group 1 glory with an eight-length success at Munich later that month.
He was beaten just a length into third by top-class compatriot Danedream in Sunday's Grosser Preis Von Baden and Hofer believes his star colt will benefit from coming back in distance.
The trainer admits his charge has little chance of toppling the world's highest-rated racehorse on Champions Day at Ascot, but is looking forward to the race nonetheless.
"He ran a very good race on Sunday and we are very happy with him," said Hofer.
"After watching the race, we think 10 furlongs is better for him than a mile and a half and if everything is good, the plan is to bring him for the Champion Stakes at Ascot. We know we can't beat Frankel, I don't think anybody can beat him, but it will be great just to be in the same race. If we can finish second, third or fourth we'll be very happy. Our horse will stay in training as a four-year-old and hopefully he can still improve."
Pastorius is currently trading at 40.039/1 for the Champion Stakes, set to be run at Ascot on October 20.
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September 2, 2012
Solario Stakes Result: Moon brings up Noseda brace
Fantastic Moon was providing trainer Jeremy Noseda with a second successive win in the Solario Stakes, following Talwar in 2011.
Fantastic Moon came with a dramatic late run to land the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown...
The Dalakhani colt was making just his second racecourse appearance after winning a Newmarket maiden last month, but had created a strong enough impression to warrant going off at just 3/1 quickly upped in grade.
Despite not settling early on in rear off an unsatisfactory pace, William Buick at no point seemed concerned for Fantastic Moon's chances and, once produced over a furlong out, his mount came home strongly, eventually collaring Godolphin's Tha'ir in the shadow of the post.
Tha'ir had been sent off the 9/4 joint-favourite, along with Master of War, who eventually finished another head back in third.
Fantastic Moon was providing trainer Jeremy Noseda with a second successive win in the Solario Stakes, following Talwar in 2011. That one has been rather disappointing since, but with Fantastic Moon having the pedigree to be both smart and suited by trips significantly in advance of the seven furlongs of the Solario, he can hopefully continue to go forward.
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August 23, 2012
Great Voltigeur Stakes Result: Buick makes all on Thought Worthy
Thought Worthy just held off the late challenge of favourite Main Sequence to land the Group 2 Great Voltigeur Stakes.
Thought Worthy just held off the late challenge of favourite Main Sequence to land the Group 2 Great Voltigeur Stakes...
Thought Worthy, sent off at a Betfair SP of 11.50, was given a brilliant tactical ride by Buick who set only a modest gallop in the early stages of the mile-and-a-half contest, but he quickened the pace before the home turn and caught one or two of his rivals a little flat-footed.
His advantage was eroded as they headed inside the last couple of furlongs, with favourite Main Sequence the biggest threat. But the John Gosden-trained Thought Worthy held on to claim the Group 2 prize by a neck.
Buick said: "He galloped well and stayed very well. He battled on well and stuck his head out. You have to admire a horse like this because he always tries his best."
The result has had an impact on the St. Leger market, with Thought Worthy now second favourite, behind Camelot, at 15.5n/a.
Earlier on the card, Dundonnell, sent off at a Betfair SP of 2.94, won the Group 3 Acomb Stakes. Roger Charlton's colt cruised into the lead under James Doyle after Afonso De Sousa had made the running, but, having looked likely to win easily, he showed his inexperience and allowed Steeler to get to within three-quarters of a length at the line. Afonso De Sousa finished a respectable third.
Winning jockey James Doyle said: "I was delighted with him. He's still very babyish, but he's helped me out there as the Aidan O'Brien horse (Afonso De Sousa) skipped away from us. I found myself in front too soon, but he's got a lot of gears."
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International Stakes Result: Imperious Frankel wins again
"I suspected they'd go a good gallop, but we had our plan in place. It panned out nicely - he won ever so well. It's a fantastic training performance."
Frankel, the top-rated horse in Timeform's history, took the step up to ten furlongs in his stride, running out an emphatic winner of the Group 1 International Stakes...
Frankel has been awarded a provisional Timeform rating of 143 for his devastating success in the Juddmonte International, the fourth time that he has recorded a figure higher than 140. His master rating remains unchanged at 147, with the style of victory on the Knavesmire leaving the impression that, one day, his rating may yet go higher.
The result was never in doubt as Frankel loomed up effortlessly on the bridle two furlongs out in the hands of Tom Queally, powering clear of his rivals to register another extremely comfortable success. Farhh just held off St Nicholas Abbey to grab second, seven lengths behind Henry Cecil's star colt.
Queally said: "I suspected they'd go a good gallop, but we had our plan in place. It panned out nicely - he won ever so well. It's a fantastic training performance."
Queally added: "I gave them enough of a lead for the pace we were going and he won ever so well. He's certainly as good (over a mile and a quarter as a mile). Every man and his dog seemed to want to put their penny's worth in to say where he should run, but to run him in the owner's race and for him to make it 13 out of 13 speaks for itself. I'm delighted to be a part of it.
Sir Henry Cecil added: "That was great, wasn't it? It's fantastic. It's great for Yorkshire, they are very supportive of racing and they deserve to see him."
Asked how it made him feel, the trainer said: "Twenty years better."
When asked about Frankel's future targets, Teddy Grimthorpe, racing manager for Prince Abdullah, said: "He's not in there (the Arc). Henry didn't want him in the race and he'd have to be supplemented. There will be a discussion and we'll have to see. The plan was always Ascot (Champion Stakes or QEII) but we'll have to see how he comes out of race."
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August 22, 2012
International Stakes Preview: Plan of a-tactics
Which will it be: the relay, the bluff or the roundabout? Jamie Lynch looks at history to find out how the big race could develop and what the ramifications might be...
An arm around an injured fellow athlete; quality; equality; the general public supporting in droves; adversity; tears in victory, tears in defeat; exhaustion; being captivated without knowing the scoring system; athletic brilliance; the self-wonder whether you could keep pace for just one lap in the middle of the 10,000m; the phrase 'news will follow shortly' scrolling across the TV screen; teamwork; individualism. Through the fortnight, we were told, by various Olympians and experts, that each one of the above, and many more besides, are 'what the Olympics is all about.' It says a lot about the Games and its coverage that a stubborn cynic like me has to stretch quite so far to find something to pick at, but it did seem as if any and every snapshot was apparently 'what it's all about.'
That's the shortcomings of the commentators and not the Olympics itself, of course, and it's easier criticised than determined, but if there's one thing the Olympics could learn from racing, rather than looking at it the other way around as is the fad, it's how more dispassionate and pointed analysis makes for greater appreciation of the event.
What's racing all about? Time and timing. Time is what shapes races and, ultimately, defines racehorses. The time a race is run in and, moreover, the time lapse between the horses at the finish, expressed as lengths, is the means to judge and rate every racehorse, individually as well as against each other. Timing, or opportunity in this sense, is key as racing is both continuous and generational, and what a horse can achieve in one month or one era is different from its possibilities in another. Take Excelebration, for example, whose star is dimmer than it might otherwise be because he's in the age of Frankel, unfortunately for Ballydoyle.
What's it all about for Ballydoyle? Speaking after he won the Juddmonte International aboard Duke of Marmalade in 2008, run that year at Newmarket after York was waterlogged, in a race of some controversy for alleged team tactics whereby stablemate Red Rock Canyon made a gap, Johnny Murtagh said: 'I didn't want to start worrying about other horses. I just wanted to worry about myself and Colm (O'Donoghue, rider of Red Rock Canyon) and I said to him, 'When you get to the four marker, just ease off and give me the passage through'. It's what Ballydoyle's all about.'
Obviously, that's not quite what Ballydoyle is all about, but strategy is clearly something that Aidan O'Brien and the team consider and apply, more so than any other racing superpower. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't, but it always adds to the drama; and they're here, with a full compliment of players for once, to ask some questions of Frankel on his biggest day.
Frankel's invincibility over a mile seemed to almost be accepted by Ballydoyle, in that the pacemaker they ran in conjunction with Excelebration didn't try to mess with Bullet Train let alone Frankel in either the Lockinge or Queen Anne, and O'Brien didn't even bother in the Sussex, but he's bothering now, bringing a different big gun, St Nicholas Abbey, and not one but two apparent race-shapers. Time and timing. They may not have the firepower to seriously ask questions of Frankel, but you can bet that Balldoyle's three horses and three riders will ask questions of Tom Queally if nothing else.
The past informs the present, so before we guess and double-guess at tactics, let's look back at some of the more memorable Ballydoyle in-play strategies:
The Relay
Don't be naive enough to think that Ballydoyle are too respectful of Frankel to get after him, as they threw everything at Sea The Stars, who was the hero of Irish racing, in 2009. The Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown was the major attack, when O'Brien fielded five against Sea The Stars, including a speed horse in Mastercraftsman (winner of Irish Guineas and St James's Palace) and a stayer in Fame And Glory (had won Irish Derby), making for some doubt even before the race as to how they'd shape it.
In the event, it was run to test stamina, almost in a relay fashion to keep the pace strong, with four of the Ballydoyle contingent racing ahead of Sea The Stars and pressing on one after another, while Fame And Glory stalked in behind. Everything went to plan, and Fame And Glory came through to lead into the home straight, but Sea The Stars was too good.
The Bluff
The 2007 Eclipse featured a clash between that year's Derby winner Authorized and the 2006 Guineas winner George Washington, over the intermediate trip of a mile and a quarter. Authorized wanted the emphasis on stamina and George Washington on speed; Authorized had one helper and George Washington had three. At first, Authorized's pacemaker was joined and in fact egged on by two of the Coolmore horses, Archipenko and Yellowstone, but after two furlongs or so both were suddenly reined back into the main pack, rendering Champery virtually redundant in his role, clear and too isolated to impact on the race.
Ironically, it was a different tactic altogether which won the day, as Ryan Moore brought Notnowcato all the way over to race on his own stand side in search of faster ground, and he emerged on top, with a head between Authorized and George Washington in second and third.
The Roundabout
Rather more underhand this one, as the manoeuvring left Dettori fuming and Seamus Heffernan banned, initially set at 14 days for 'team tactics' but reduced on appeal to improper riding. Librettist, the biggest danger to George Washington in the 2006 QEII, was drawn in stall one, which in those days was the outside at Ascot, and he stayed wide most of the way around, influenced by the roundabout route taken by Heffernan on Ivan Denisovich who was kept alongside Librettist. In the home straight, Librettist ran out of steam, Dettori had steam coming out of his ears, and teamwork beat steamwork as George Washington quickened up the inside to win comfortably.
Which one, if any, will Aidan O'Brien have in mind to defeat the undefeated one? The relay must be long odds-on. Stamina is the unknown for Frankel going into the International, and stamina is what St Nicholas Abbey will need to be tested at this trip, so the likeliest use of the jokers in the pack is for Robin Hood to go hard until spent, then pass on the baton to Windsor Palace, to maximise St Nicholas Abbey's chance. The earlier they can tempt Frankel, or tempt Queally to be more precise, to put in those sub 11-second furlongs, the more vulnerable he may be in the finish. Time and timing.
Frankel's weak spot, and therefore easiest point of attack, is probably Bullet Train, his three-parts brother and tempo-setter. If the enemy of my enemy is my friend, then it goes that the friend of my enemy is my enemy, which in Ballydoyle's case is Bullet Train. Disrupt him, and you may just upset Frankel.
The previous two paragraphs have been full of 'ifs' and 'mays', and all of this conjecture is purely that, likely to be academic, as racing isn't all about time and timing- first and foremost it's about ability, and Frankel has more of that than any other horse in Timeform's experience, enabling him to overcome whatever traps or trips he faces.
I, for one, hope that Ballydoyle do employ 'the relay' strategy, as the stronger the pace the higher the threshold and the more chance of something out of this world by Frankel. Ballydoyle coming in numbers to the party is great news for York, great news for racing, and great news for Frankel.
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August 21, 2012
Timeform Daily: Great Voltigeur Stakes, Wednesday, York 15:05
Main Sequence sets the standard on his second to Camelot in the Derby and he can capitalise on the drop in grade...
Timeform provide a runner-by-runner guide to what is a fascinating renewal of the Group 2 Great Voltigeur...
Thomas Chippendale is most progressive, taking form up another notch with defeat of Noble Mission and Thought Worthy in King Edward at Royal Ascot last time. Has to concede 3 lb all round here but capable of better still.
Encke is a well-bred sort who has done very little wrong in 4 starts so far, only narrowly defeated by Noble Mission on Group-race debut at Goodwood last time. Another good run on the cards.
Energizer stepped up on previous efforts when landing 1¼m Group 3 at Royal Ascot in June. Snapped up by Godolphin and supplemented for this race since, but will need to improve for longer trip to take this.
Main Sequence won his first 4 starts, notably Lingfield Derby Trial, and went on to finish second to Camelot in the Derby. Didn't have run of race (not clear run) when fourth in Longchamp Group 1 latest. The one to beat.
Noble Mission is a brother to Frankel and is a smart colt in own right, second to Thomas Chippendale at Royal Ascot before edging out Encke in Goodwood Group 3. Interestingly, hood now left off for first time since debut.
Thought Worthy is a brother to St Leger hero Lucarno and quickly made up into smart performer. Behind some of today's rivals in Derby and King Edward last 2 starts, though, and may find odd one too good again.
Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Main Sequence
2. Encke
3. Energizer
Timeform Verdict: Main Sequence sets the standard on his second to Camelot in the Derby and he can capitalise on the drop in grade. The Godolphin-owned pair of Encke and Energizer can provide the stiffest resistance.
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August 18, 2012
Hungerford Stakes Result: Kirby produces lethal ride on Force
Although his rivals were closing fast at the line, Lethal Force held Strong Suit by a neck, with Alanza a length and a half further back in third.
Lethal Force, who was sent off at a Betfair SP of 44, won the Group 2 Hungerford Stakes, having been given an enterprising front-running ride by jockey Adam Kirby...
Kirby soon grabbed the lead on Clive Cox's three-year-old, who was blinkered for the first time. Although his rivals were closing fast at the line, Lethal Force held Strong Suit by a neck, with Alanza a length and a half further back in third.
Kirby said: "He's quite a smart horse. There didn't seem to be that much speed in the race and he lengthened really well. He's battled well."
Trainer Clive Cox said: "The horses are in great form. He's got a lot of class and when they cut him a bit of slack halfway I was concerned for them, rather than ourselves."
Earlier on the card, Mount Athos booked his ticket to Australia for the Melbourne Cup with a clear-cut success in the Geoffrey Freer Stakes.
Luca Cumani's progressive five-year-old landed his first Group race, outpointing Brown Panther, with Modun a further position back in third. He had been well supported to do so, eventually going off at a Betfair SP of 2.39.
His trainer said: "I talked to Ryan Moore, who seemed very happy and thought the horse picked up nicely. The plan is to go for the Melbourne Cup. After this, I would think he will go up to 53.5 kilograms, which is the same as one of other hopes for the race, Quest For Peace."
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August 8, 2012
Champions Day: Frankel entered for Champions Stakes
Frankel and Camelot feature among 46 entries for the Champions Stakes at Ascot on October 20
Frankel and Camelot feature among 46 entries for the Champions Stakes at Ascot on October 20...
Sir Henry Cecil's unbeaten superstar, who is the highest rated racehorse in Timeform's history, is due to step up to 10 furlongs for his next race at York in the International Stakes later this month, having asserted his complete dominance over the one mile division.
Old foe Excelebration is one of a huge army of possible top-class rivals from Aidan O'Brien's Ballydoyle yard, including Triple Crown aspirant Camelot, Imperial Monarch, St Nicholas Abbey and Power.
The likes of last year's winner Cirrus Des Aigles, Nathaniel, Giofra, Meandre, Golden Lilac and The Fugue could also take him on.
Frankel has additionally been entered in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, which he won last year, over a mile. However, it is believed that he is likely to be targeted at the Champions Stakes. Cecil could rely on his new addition Beauty Parlour in the one mile Group 1 contest, while the John Gosden-trained duo of Fallen For You and Elusive Kate could also line up. Camelot is a surprise entry, with Most Improved and long-term absentee Parish Hall still in the mix.
The British Champions Sprint entries are headed by July Cup winner Mayson, with Ortensia, Bated Breath and the returning Starspangledbanner still engaged.
Last year's British Champions Fillies' And Mares' Stakes winner Dancing Rain is one of 33 entries this season, with Great Heavens, The Fugue and Snow Fairy also possible runners.
Saddler's Rock, Colour Vision and Fame And Glory could all clash in the British Champions Long Distance Cup. Whilst the Dermot Weld-trained Rite Of Passage, the 2010 Gold Cup winner, has not been seen since May 2011 but also holds an entry.
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July 16, 2012
Nunthorpe Stakes: Starspangled returning to racing
The seven furlong event could serve as a preparation run for the former top-class performer with the Haydock Sprint and the Nunthrope Stakes potentially on the agenda...
Starspangledbanner could make his racecourse return this weekend in the Minstrel Stakes after proving infertile at stud in recent months...
The seven furlong event could serve as a preparation run for the former top-class performer with the Haydock Sprint and the Nunthrope Stakes potentially on the agenda later on in the season depending on how Saturday goes.
Starspangledbanner was a Group 1 winner for Ballydoyle in 2010, taking both the Golden Jubilee Stakes and the July Cup before finishing runner-up to surprise winner Sole Power in the Nunthorpe Stakes.
He was rated 128 at his peak by Timeform and there is a chance that he can prove competitive in the top races if he returns in the same form, with no standout performer yet to emerge in the division with the absence of Deacon Blues.
Starspangledbanner is currently 15.514/1 for the Nunthorpe Stakes, whilst Sole Power trades at 6.05/1 favourite. The former Australian trained runner is 10.09/1 for the Haydock Sprint, a race where Bated Breath currently heads the market.
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April 4, 2012
BMW Stakes: Americain can take Rosehill Group 1 reckons Mosse
News 
/ Timeform / 03 April 2012 / Leave a Comment 
Gerald Mosse and Americain
"Mosse, who conceded that he hadn't seen the horse for a couple of months, expressed himself delighted with the way Americain looked..."
Top French jockey Gerald Mosse couldn't hide his enthusiasm for the chances of Americain in Saturday's BMW Stakes (off 05:25 BST) at Rosehill after riding the seven-year-old entire in a special gallop at the track on Tuesday.
2010 Melbourne Cup winner American took to the course well before dawn to do h his preparation for Saturday's $2.25million BMW Stakes in the hands of Mosse, with the rider having flown in from Hong Kong late Monday to put the Timeform 129-rated stayer through a light workout.
Mosse, who conceded that he hadn't seen the horse for a couple of months, expressed himself delighted with the way Americain looked, also stating that the horse's action felt "great".
Americain's gallop, in which he kept tightly to the running rail, was undertaken to help the horses get familiar with the track, something that Mosse believes will be a factor in helping his turn tables with Australian Cup conqueror Manighar at the weekend.
The horse his rider describes as a "pure gentleman" is currently trading as the [2.48] favourite for Saturday's 2400m race.
However, Americain won't be the only former Melbourne Cup hero amongst the 10-strong line-up as 2007 winner Efficient has also been declared. That said, rising nine and having only won once since that Flemington success, Efficient is understandably trading at [26.0].
Manighar ([4.2]) and Southern Speed ([9.0]) are also set to feature in the BMW Stakes, which joins the Golden Slipper as the two Group 1s on Rosehill's Saturday card.
Former champion jockey and new Betfair columnist, Ryan Moore, will partner the Richard Hannon-trained Rockinante in Thursday's Group 3 Prix Jebel at Maisons-Laffitte......
Big Buck's will attempt to create history when he chases his 17th consecutive victory in the £100,000 Grade One Liverpool Hurdle at Aintree on April 12......
Henry Cecil does not have the Breeders' Cup in the forefront of his mind as a way for Frankel to end his career.......
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